CSU is proud to honor the Mobile Police Department as the Partner of the Month. The department has been a learning partner since 2012. Police Chief James Barber and his department were presented a plaque and refreshments when the Partner of the Month announcement was made.
“It is my vision to have every neighborhood in our city safe,” said Barber, who believes that this will happen with proper training and education. “That’s why it’s been important for me to partner with Columbia Southern University in order to increase the training and education of the personnel from the Mobile Police Department.”
More than 25 Mobile police officers are taking advantage of the partnership with CSU which features a 10 percent tuition discount and exclusive scholarships. Cpl. Joshua Kersey earned his online associate and bachelor’s degree from CSU and is now seeking a master’s degree in criminal justice administration.
Robert Hahlen
“After I joined the Mobile Police Department in 2005, I decided to go back to school and finish my degree. Many of my coworkers with the police department were already taking classes with Columbia Southern and they loved the flexibility of the programs offered through CSU. Following their advice, I enrolled and started working toward finishing my degree,” said Kersey.
Sixteen Mobile police officers have graduated from CSU and among them is Sgt. Robert Hahlen. He explained that he was not satisfied with just a bachelor’s degree from CSU, so he re-enrolled to earn his master’s degree in criminal justice. “Earning my degrees at Columbia Southern University has opened quite a few doors, given me three raises and contributed significantly to two promotions.”
“I am honored to work with the men and women of Mobile Police Department. I enjoy informing them about our degree programs and partner benefits during visits and roll calls, and always appreciate the chance to meet students and graduates. Education is highly encouraged and supported within the department, and of the 28 promotions awarded in October 2013, eight of those were awarded to CSU graduates,” said Renee Wright, a CSU Outreach representative.
To learn more about CSU learning partnerships, please call 888-785-3006 or visit www.ColumbiaSouthern.edu/Partners.
